5 ways embracing 'hygge' can improve your health

Everyone's talking about hygge, the Danish way of living that can roughly be translated in English to mean 'cosiness'. Denmark was recently voted the happiest country in the world. So we decided to look at the ways embracing this trend can be good for your health. Grab a blanket and your favourite hot beverage and read on….

1. Don't underestimate sleep

Sleep is a significant part of living a healthy lifestyle, and many of us simply do not get enough. If we want to take a leaf out of the Danes' book, and be as productive as possible during the day, to help us leave work on time, then we need a good quality sleep.

"Magnesium is known as 'nature's tranquiliser' and is needed to relax our muscles and nerves, which helps us to fall into a peaceful sleep. To ensure you're getting enough magnesium try and include plenty of magnesium-rich foods in your diet such as, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, fish and leafy green vegetables," advises nutritionist, Cassandra Barns.

2. Embrace the fresh air

Cycling accounts for 20% of all commuting trips in Demark and in general for most Danes, exercise is part of their daily routine. Even if we don't fancy cycling to work, it's important to make sure we exercise daily. Having a regular exercise routine can help alleviate negative feelings in the long term.

"It doesn't need to be intensive or of long duration: even a 10-minute brisk walk or a short exercise DVD can help boost those endorphins. Try Pilates, which will increase your flexibility and improve posture as well as help to release tension," explains Lynne Robinson, author of Pilates for Life and founder of Body Control Pilates.

3. Check out of social media

A soon as you wake up are you checking for Facebook messages and Instagram notifications? It's easy to get addicted to the buzz of social media and the 24/7 news cycle, but it's crucial we make time to get out and socialise.

"I'd suggest we need to do more than just take the odd break from the screen. Making sure that we spend time with friends in the real world is essential – don't neglect your real relationships with others in favour of your online connections," explains Cassandra Barns.

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4. Clear your diary for some 'you time'

The average working week in Demark is 8am-4pm, which is a great way for the Danish to embrace 'hygge,' by spending time after work doing what they wish. Despite many of us working longer hours, it's still extremely important to make time for yourself.

"Set aside regular time to do something that you love and that makes you feel good: reading a good book, watching your favourite television programme, going for a massage, going out for a meal with a friend, or having a long bath. Doing things we love naturally lowers our stress hormones and helps us to cope with the more stressful parts of the day," says Shona Wilkinson, nutritionist at SuperfoodUK.com

6. Step away from your desk

"Exercise is one of the most potent stress relievers but also the most underutilised. Take a brisk 5-minute walk to stimulate anti-anxiety effects, clear your thoughts and allow you to deal with your stressors more effectively," explains nutritionist Lily Soutter.

7. Put things into perspective

This will help you achieve the work/life balance, which is a significant part of the Danish culture. If you're concerned that you're burning the candle at each end, learn to get your priorities right.

"There is nothing in your life right now more important than your health. Learn to say no if you feel that you have taken on too much. Being assertive is invigorating and empowering. It also helps to make lists of what is or is not a priority and to tackle the priority tasks first. This will help give you a sense of control over your life," says nutritionist Dr Marilyn Glenville.

The materials in this web site are in no way intended to replace the professional medical care, advice, diagnosis or treatment of a doctor. The web site does not have answers to all problems. Answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone. If you notice medical symptoms or feel ill, you should consult your doctor - for further information see our Terms and conditions.

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